D.C. United announced Friday that midfielder/forward Chris Pontius, the club's leading goal scorer this season and longest-tenured player at just 25 years of age, has signed a long-term contract. Terms weren't disclosed.

The news comes a day after United learned that captain and reigning MLS MVP Dwayne De Rosario likely is out for the season with a badly sprained knee.

Chris Pontius has a long-term contract to match his significance to United. (AP Photo)

"We are thrilled to have agreed to terms with Chris on a new deal," United GM Dave Kasper said in a statement. "Whether playing at midfield or forward, Chris has become one of the most dangerous attacking players in Major League Soccer. His best soccer is still to come and this is exciting for the club, our fans, and our community. We look forward to his contributions, on and off the field, for years to come."

Pontius was drafted seventh overall out of UC Santa Barbara in 2009 and had a productive rookie year, with four goals and three assists in 28 MLS appearances. His subsequent two seasons were cut short by injuries. He had surgery on his hamstring in 2010 and was enjoying his best season as a professional in 2011 until breaking his leg in September, shortly after returning from U.S. national team duty (he was on the roster but didn't play).

Pontius has rebounded this season with 10 goals and two assists in 24 MLS games. He has been invaluable as D.C. coach Ben Olsen shuffled players in and out of the five attacking positions. Pontius was named MVP of the MLS All-Star Game after scoring the late equalizer against Chelsea. He now must carry more of the offensive load in De Rosario's absence.

Pontius' 2012 salary is listed as $166,250 by the MLS Players Union. D.C. plays host to the New England Revolution on Saturday evening.